As part of our Richmond community — whether you’re an alum, a student or a professor — you know that academic excellence is at our core. That’s why our professors endlessly challenge our students and one another as they explore new ideas, advance their research and develop innovations.  

Our new video series, Spider Talks, celebrates our commitment to these inspiring thought leaders. In the months to come, President Crutcher will sit down for short conversations with faculty across the University about their areas of study and the subjects that get them excited. We know first-hand that enthusiastic professors lead to engaged students — just ask any Spider alum. 

Crutcher kicked off his first Spider Talks video with law professor Andy Spalding, who recently brought a group of students to South Korea to learn about the ways that major sporting events like the Olympics prompt host countries to strengthen laws against corruption. Spalding uses the games to help his students better understand the role and impact of anticorruption at the international level.  

The next installment features leadership professor and American historian Julian Hayter, who serves on the City of Richmond’s Monument Avenue Commission that has been discussed in national news throughout the past year. Hayter uses contemporary issues, such as civil rights and historical monuments, to help students better understand the forces that shape how politics truly operate.

Whether it’s been a while since you’ve visited campus, or you’re a parent and curious about that professor your sophomore is always raving about, we hope these segments will give you a glimpse of some of the personalities that continue to make Richmond the academic powerhouse we love.